Kenton Lee Weinreich passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones and music on June 1st, 2026 at 71 years old.

Ken was born on March 6, 1955. He was raised in Skokie, Illinois by his loving parents Kenneth and Lela. He went on to settle down in Wisconsin and raise kids of his own, moving finally to Arizona in his later years where he could fully embrace retirement and pursue his passions that had always brought him joy. He spent time jeeping, riding his motorcycle, and mostly playing music. Ken was most himself when he had a guitar in hand. Ken joined several music groups and jam sessions while in Arizona, playing with bands called Still Above Ground, Stoneheads, and Vintage. His dream was to be a rock star and he got to live out that dream in his final years.

Ken was a career pilot, getting his license at just 21, and quickly moving up in the ranks to become Captain Weinreich. His love of flying was a testament to who he was as an adventurer. He always said, “If you find a job you love, you will never work a day in your life,” and that was true for his life.

Ken never shied away from thrill throughout his whole life. Anything from hot air ballooning and jon boating trips with his friends and father, to cross-country motorcycle trips, drag-racing, and house boating at Lake Powell. He enjoyed roller coasters with his daughters and shared the experience of skydiving with his son. Ken was a free spirit who sought opportunities to live life to the fullest and passed that spirit on to his kids.

Ken had an incredibly giving nature. He worked with an organization where he spent years building meaningful relationships as a mentor. Ken had an abundance of patience and an innate ability to teach and share his knowledge with anyone around him. He even taught flying for 3 years as a flight instructor and chief pilot.

Ken will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for his family, and the joy he found in flying, music, the Chicago Blackhawks, and Chicago White Sox. Ken is survived by his five children; Kelly (James), Allison (Dan), Sydney (Trinton), Peyton (Tanner), and Sawyer; his six grandchildren, Jason, Ariel, Mark, Luke, Everett, and Elliot; the mothers of his children, Nancy and Alisha; his loving partner, Wendy; and many friends whose lives were touched by knowing him.

Though he will be deeply missed, he will be lovingly remembered through memories and stories.

A celebration of life is being planned for the near future.